China-Bangladesh relations

Bangladesh is looking to rebalance its diplomacy in the post-Hasina era, but it’s not going all in on China, either.

Beijing is keenly aware of the opportunities arising from the ouster of PM Sheikh Hasina, and will seek to strengthen its existing defense diplomacy with Dhaka. 

India has suddenly announced its interest in funding the project, hoping to box China out of involvement. That puts Dhaka in a tough spot.

Unlike the U.S., China is making no demands on PM Hasina to ensure that elections are free and fair.

It may be tempting to read foreign policy choices as “embracing” the Indo-Pacific, but a closer look reveals Dhaka’s continued sense of hesitancy.

Ahead of his planned tour of African countries, Qin Gang made a surprise stop in Dhaka.

Bangladesh's prudent, selective engagement with China's Belt and Road has helped Dhaka avoid the debt problems that plague other South Asian participants.

The China-India conflict has inspired more paternalism against Bangladesh’s rapidly developing economy.

If Dhaka plays its cards right, the country could grasp an opportunity as both China and India up their efforts to gain influence.

Despite India’s concerns, the port in Bangladesh won’t become a Chinese asset – but it will bring Beijing other benefits.

Dhaka has largely avoided the major pitfalls of China’s initiative while embracing the gains.

Bangladesh has turned its neighbors' rivalry into billions of dollars in investment and military equipment.